Overview
- Andrea Kiewel kicked off the show's 40th season Sunday with a live opener from Mainz featuring Beatrice Egli, Vanessa Mai, Guido Maria Kretschmer and Palina Rojinski.
- ZDF now ends the broadcast at 14:00 as part of a Sunday schedule overhaul begun in September 2025 that expands documentary slots and supports streaming.
- The premiere drew a split response, with sold‑out crowds and ovations on site but X users calling the show dull and noting a recap that mentioned men’s football titles while omitting the DFB women’s World Cup wins.
- ZDF ticketing for 2026 lists a blanket alcohol ban at the venue, meaning only non‑alcoholic drinks are sold on site, a shift from past practice that could change the crowd dynamic some fans sought.
- The season plans 20 live, open‑air Sunday episodes and leans on the show’s scale and Guinness record for longest‑running live open‑air entertainment program.